Kitchen & Bath Remodel Budget Calculator
Example: Home value: 400000 $ · Room: 1 · Budget (% of home value): 12 % · Contingency reserve: 15 %
| Recommended budget | $48,000 |
| Budget with contingency | $55,200 |
| Contingency reserve | $7,200 |
Worked example
For a $400,000 home, budgeting a kitchen at 12% of value targets $48,000. Adding a 15% contingency — about $7,200 — brings the realistic all-in budget to roughly $55,200. That reserve is what covers the outdated wiring, the water damage under the sink, or the cabinet upgrade you decide on mid-project, none of which appear in the original quote.
Frequently asked questions
How much should a kitchen remodel cost?
A widely used guideline is 10 to 15% of the home value for a kitchen. Spending far more risks over-improving relative to what buyers in your area will pay; spending far less may not deliver the update you want. This tool lets you dial in the percentage.
Why do I need a contingency reserve?
Remodels routinely uncover hidden problems — old plumbing, electrical that fails code, rot, or asbestos — plus scope changes you decide on as work progresses. A 10 to 20% reserve keeps a surprise from stalling the project or blowing your finances.
Should a bathroom budget be a smaller percentage?
Yes. Bathrooms are smaller and typically warrant about 5 to 10% of home value. Choose the room and set the percentage accordingly; whole-home renovations can justify a much larger share.
Will I get this money back at resale?
Partly. Kitchens and baths are among the better-recouping projects, but you rarely recover the full cost. Use a renovation ROI estimate alongside this budget if resale value, not just enjoyment, is your goal.